Ε koda Octavia A7 (2013β2020) is a car that is valued for its practicality, but the standard acoustics, even in top trim levels, often leave much to be desired. Dull sound, lack of bass and distortion at high volumes are typical complaints from owners. At the same time replacing speakers on Octavia A7 can radically transform the sound without requiring complex tuning or expensive equipment.
In this article we will look at everything you need to know about columns for Ε koda Octavia A7: From standard speaker sizes and placements to choosing the best replacement models. We will analyze the features of acoustics in different configurations (including Amundsen and Columbus), we'll give step-by-step installation instructions and share life hacks for setting up sound. And for those who want maximum quality, here is an overview of integration with external amplifiers and subwoofers.
Standard Octavia A7 acoustics: configurations and features
Factory audio system Octavia A7 varies depending on configuration. In basic versions (Swing) the simplest speakers with mediocre sound are installed, while the top ones (Columbus with Canton) higher quality components are used. However, even premium acoustics Canton does not always meet the expectations of music lovers.
Let's look at the key options:
- π Basic equipment (
Swing): 4 speakers (front 16.5 cm, rear 13 cm), without subwoofer. The sound is βflatβ, without clear highs and lows. - π΅
Bolero/Amundsen: 6β8 speakers, including tweeters in the front doors. The sound is better, but the bass is still weak. - π§
Columbuswith Canton: 10 speakers + subwoofer in the trunk. The most advanced factory system, but many owners note the lack of βliveβ sound.
The main problem of standard acoustics is low amplifier power (even in Canton it rarely exceeds 200 W). This leads to distortion at high volumes and lack of dynamics. Besides, Most configurations use paper diffusers, which quickly degrade from moisture and temperature changes.
β οΈ Attention: In vehicles with the system Canton Replacing the speakers may require reflashing the radio. Some models (eg RNS 510) block sound when non-standard speakers are detected.
| Equipment | Number of speakers | Dimensions (front/rear) | Availability of a subwoofer | Amplifier type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Swing |
4 | 16.5 cm / 13 cm | No | Built-in (power ~40 W) |
Bolero |
6 | 16.5 cm / 13 cm + tweeters | No | Built-in (power ~60 W) |
Amundsen |
8 | 16.5 cm / 13 cm + tweeters | No | External (power ~100 W) |
Columbus + Canton |
10 | 16.5 cm / 13 cm + tweeters + midbass | Yes (in the trunk) | External (power ~200 W) |
- Swing
- Bolero
- Amundsen
- Columbus with Canton
- Other
Dimensions and placement of speakers in Octavia A7
Knowing them is critical before replacing speakers exact dimensions and installation locations. B Octavia A7 The speakers are located in standard places, but there are nuances depending on the year of manufacture and configuration.
Main positions:
- πͺ Front doors: Main full range speakers (size
16.5 cm). In versions with tweeters, they are installed in the upper part of the door or on the dashboard. - π Rear doors: coaxial speakers (
13 cm). May be missing in some versions. - ποΈ Front panel: tweeters (size
2.5β3 cm) in complete setsBoleroand above. - π¦ trunk: subwoofer (only in Canton, size
20Γ30 cm).
Important to consider seat depth. For example, in the front doors Octavia A7 maximum speaker depth - 6.5 cm. Exceeding this value will require modification of the door (deepening or using spacer rings).
β οΈ Attention: Vehicles from 2017 to 2020 may have custom shaped (oval) speakers installed in the rear doors. To replace them, adapters or modification of the panel will be required.
To make it easier to select speakers, a compatibility table is provided below:
| Position | Standard size | Max. depth | Recommended type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front doors | 16.5 cm (6.5") | 6.5 cm | Component system or coaxial | Tweeters are mounted on a bracket or in the dashboard |
| Rear doors | 13 cm (5.25") | 5 cm | Coaxial | Some versions have an oval shape |
| 2.5β3 cm (1") | 2 cm | Silk or metal dome | Can be integrated into the speaker or separate | |
| Subwoofer | 20Γ30 cm | 10 cm | Closed or bass reflex box | Only in Canton, attached to the body |
Before purchasing new speakers, be sure to check the seats using a cardboard template. Even a slight discrepancy in diameter or depth can lead to installation problems.
The best replacement speakers: review of models and brands
Selecting speakers for Octavia A7 Depends on budget and audio requirements. We analyzed owner reviews and independent expert tests to rank the best options for each position.
Optimal for front doors component systems (separate midbass + tweeter), as they provide clearer sound. High-quality coaxial cables are suitable for rear doors. Let's look at the top models:
Front speakers (16.5 cm)
- π₯ Focal PS 165 FX: component system with Kevlar diffuser. Excellent detail and powerful bass. Price: ~15,000 rub.
- π₯ Hertz DCX 165.3: Fiberglass cone, high efficiency. Ideal for rock music. Price: ~12,000 rub.
- π₯ Alpine S-S65C: budget option with good balance. Price: ~8,000 rub.
Rear speakers (13 cm)
- π΅ JBL GTO529: coaxial with titanium tweeter. Bright sound, but requires a high-quality amplifier. Price: ~6,000 rub.
- π Pioneer TS-A1370F: balanced sound, easy installation. Price: ~4,500 rub.
- π° Morel Maximo 5.25: Premium coax with silk tweeter. Price: ~10,000 rub.
- π§ DLS Ultimate Iridium 1: Silk dome, ultra-detailed treble. Price: ~7,000 rub.
- πΆ Audison Voce AV 1.0: Metal dome, bright high frequencies. Price: ~5,500 rub.
For those who want maximum sound, we recommend considering enhanced sound system with an external amplifier (for example, Alpine KTA-450 or JBL Club A600) and subwoofer (for example, JL Audio 10W0v3-4).
How to choose between coaxial and component systems?
Coaxial speakers are easier to install and less expensive, but component systems provide better imaging and detail. If your budget is limited or you don't want to bother with wiring for tweeters, choose coaxial cables (for example, Focal Integration IS 165). For audiophiles, a component system (e.g. Hertz Mille MLK 2) will be the optimal solution, but will require additional costs for crossovers and installation.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing speakers
Replacing speakers in Ε koda Octavia A7 does not require special skills, but will require accuracy and a set of tools. Below are detailed instructions for the front and rear speakers.
Required Tools
- π§ T20/T25 screwdriver (for door panel removal)
- π¨ Plastic mounting spatulas (to avoid damaging the clips)
- π Ruler or template for checking dimensions
- π Soldering iron or terminals (for connecting wires)
- π§² Torque wrench (to tighten bolts to the correct torque)
Replacing front speakers
- Disconnect the battery (remove the negative terminal).
- Remove the plastic door trim, starting from the bottom edge (carefully pry up the clips with a spatula).
- Unscrew the speaker mounting bolts (usually 3-4 pieces).
- Disconnect the power connector. If the new speaker has a different connector, use a soldering iron or crimp terminals.
- Install the new speaker, check for gaps and distortions.
- Reassemble the door in reverse order, making sure all clips snap into place.
Replacing rear speakers
The process is similar, but there are nuances:
- In some versions, the back panel is secured with latches and one bolt (under a decorative plug).
- The wires to the rear speakers often pass through a rubber seal - do not overtighten them during installation.
- If you have oval speakers, use adapter rings or replace the panel with a universal one.
βοΈ Preparing to replace speakers
β οΈ Attention: When replacing speakers in the system Canton It may be necessary to disable the impedance test function in the radio. To do this, you need to reflash the head unit or use a snag (4 Ohm resistor connected in parallel).
After installing new speakers be sure to check the polarity (plus to plus, minus to minus). Failure to comply with the polarity will lead to phase distortion and sound deterioration.
The most common mistake when replacing is incorrectly connecting the tweeters. In component systems they should be connected via a crossover and not directly to the radio.
Setting up the sound after replacing speakers
Even the most expensive speakers won't reach their full potential without proper setup. B Octavia A7 There are several ways to optimize the sound:
Setting up via radio
In head units Bolero, Amundsen and Columbus The following options are available:
- ποΈ Equalizer: Adjust frequencies from 60-100Hz for bass, 2-5kHz for mids, and 10-15kHz for treble.
- π Balance/fader: Distribute the sound evenly between the front and rear speakers.
- π§ Loudness: Enable this function to compensate for bass frequencies at low volumes.
Using an External Processor
For advanced settings you can set digital processor (for example, Helix DSP or Audison Bit Ten). It allows:
- Adjust the frequency response (amplitude-frequency response) to suit the car interior.
- Adjust audio delays to create the right scene.
- Control the levels of each speaker separately.
Noise and vibration insulation
To improve the sound, it is recommended to noise and vibration insulation doors. To do this, use the following materials:
- π‘οΈ Vibroplast (for example, StP Aero) - to dampen metal vibrations.
- π Shumka (for example, Accent Premium) - to absorb external noise.
Optimal scheme:
- Stick vibroplast on the inside of the door (70β80% of the area).
- Cover it with a layer of noise.
- Install the speakers on the spacer rings (if required).
After noise and vibration isolation, the sound will become cleaner, but the bass may βgoβ deeper. To avoid this, increase the bass level by 2-3 dB in the equalizer settings.
Integration with amplifiers and subwoofers
If you want really powerful sound, the standard radio will not be enough. In this case, you will need to install an external amplifier and subwoofer. Let's look at the main options:
Amplifier selection
For Octavia A7 will fit:
- ποΈ 4 channel amplifier (for example, Alpine MRV-F300) - for connecting front and rear speakers.
- π Mono amplifier (for example, JBL Club A1200) - exclusively for the subwoofer.
- ποΈ 5 channel amplifier (for example, Hertz HDP 5) is a universal solution for the entire system.
Amplifier connection
There are two main ways:
- Via high-level input (HIGH-LEVEL): connection to standard speaker wires. Suitable for systems without replacing the radio.
- Via low level input (RCA): requires replacing the radio with a model with RCA outputs (for example, Pioneer AVH-X5800DAB).
To connect using the first method you will need high level converter (for example, AudioControl LC2i). It converts the signal from the standard radio into one suitable for an amplifier.
Selecting and installing a subwoofer
For Octavia A7 optimal:
- π¦ Closed box (for example, JL Audio 10W0v3-4 in a box
10") - compact and deep bass. - π Bass reflex (for example, Alpine S-W10D4) - louder, but requires more space.
- π Stills subwoofer (for example, Hertz EBX 250.1) - a ready-made solution for the trunk.
Installing a subwoofer in the trunk Octavia A7 has nuances:
- Available with Canton The standard subwoofer is located on the right. It can be replaced or supplemented.
- To preserve useful trunk volume, choose compact models (for example, Rockford Fosgate P300-10).
- Route the amplifier power wires along the left side of the car (standard wiring runs there).
β οΈ Attention: When installing the subwoofer in the trunk, be sure to secure it to the body using damping pads. Otherwise, vibrations will be transmitted to the body, which will lead to rattling of the panels.
How to avoid voltage sags with a powerful system?
When installing an amplifier with a power of more than 500 W, it is recommended to run a separate power cable (with a cross-section of at least 4 AWG) directly from the battery, and also install a capacitor (for example, 1 Farad) next to the amplifier. This will prevent voltage drops during peak loads and protect the on-board network.
Common problems and their solutions
After replacing speakers or installing an amplifier, owners Octavia A7 often encounter typical problems. Let's look at the most common ones and how to eliminate them.
No sound after replacement
Possible causes and solutions:
- π Incorrect connection: Check the polarity and integrity of the wires. Use a continuity tester.
- π Radio lock: in systems Canton protection may be triggered. The solution is a snag (4 Ohm resistor) or firmware.
- π οΈ Speaker damaged: Check the resistance (should be 3-4 ohms).
Wheezing and distortion
Most often caused by:
- πΆ Weak signal: If you are using a high-level input, install a converter with level control (for example, AudioControl LC7i).
- π Malnutrition: Check the voltage on the amplifier (must be at least 12.5 V).
- π Overloading speakers: Reduce the bass level on your amplifier or stereo.
Panel bolt pattern
Typical problem after installing a subwoofer. Solutions:
- π οΈ Noise and vibration insulation: Treat the doors and trunk (especially the lid).
- π§ Secure the wires: Loose wires may touch the body and vibrate.
- ποΈ Adjust the cutoff frequency: Limit bass below 40Hz.
If the problem persists, check the mounting of the speakers - they should not touch the plastic panels.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about speakers in Octavia A7
Is it possible to install larger speakers than stock ones?
Theoretically, yes, but the seats will need to be modified. For example, to install 18 cm speakers instead 16.5 cm you need to widen the hole in the metal of the door and use spacer rings. However, this can weaken the door's rigidity and lead to vibrations. The best option is to choose speakers of a standard size, but with better characteristics.
Do I need to change the radio when replacing the speakers?
Not necessarily. Standard radios Bolero and Amundsen are able to unleash the potential of high-quality speakers, especially if you use an external amplifier with a high-level input. However, for full sound tuning (equalizer, timing, crossovers), it is better to install a multimedia system with RCA outputs (for example, Pioneer AVH-Z5200BT).
Which speaker brand is best for Octavia A7?
The choice of brand depends on your budget and preferences:
- Budget up to 10,000 rubles.: Pioneer, JBL β good price/quality ratio.
- Budget 10,000β20,000 rub.: Focal, Hertz - the best choice for most.
- Premium (from RUB 20,000): Morel, DLS, Audison - for audiophiles.
For bass music (hip-hop, electronic), it is better to choose speakers with a polypropylene or Kevlar cone. Models with silk tweeters are suitable for rock music.
Is it possible to connect a subwoofer to the standard radio?
Yes, but it will be required high level converter (for example, AudioControl LC2i). It converts the signal from standard speakers into a low-level signal for the amplifier. An alternative is to use an amplifier with a high-level input (for example, Alpine KTA-450). In both cases, the sound quality will be worse than when connected via RCA, but this will allow you to keep the stock radio.
How much does it cost to completely replace the acoustics in an Octavia A7?
The cost depends on the system level:
- Budget option (replacement of speakers + Shumka): 15,000β25,000 rubles.
- Intermediate level (component system + amplifier): 40,000β70,000 rub.
- Premium (full tuning with subwoofer and processor): RUB 100,000. and above.
The cost of work in a car service ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles, depending on the complexity.